What Does it Mean to be a Child of God: Discussion Guide
Matt Parker
Part of Cross Brand Sermons
September 26, 2024

Summary

The sermon focused on the profound privilege and responsibility of being a child of God. Drawing from 1 John 3, the speaker emphasized the distinction between being a creation of God and being a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ. The sermon highlighted the permanent relationship, privileges, and responsibilities that come with being part of God’s family, including the call to purity, obedience, and reflecting God’s love and light in the world.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with open hearts, ready to receive Your wisdom and guidance. As we discuss today’s sermon, help us to understand the depth of Your love and the privilege it is to be called Your children. May Your Spirit lead our conversation and open our hearts to the truths You want us to grasp today. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Ice Breaker

What is one thing you enjoyed doing as a child that you still enjoy today?

Key Verses

  1. 1 John 3:1-3
  2. Romans 8:14-17
  3. Galatians 4:6
  4. Ephesians 2:18
  5. John 10:28-29

Questions

  1. What does it mean to you to be called a child of God?

  2. How do you distinguish between being a creation of God and being a child of God?

  3. Can you share a time when you felt God’s fatherly love in a profound way?

  4. What are some privileges of being a child of God that stood out to you from the sermon?

  5. How do you handle the responsibilities that come with being a child of God?

  6. In what ways can we reflect God’s love and light in our daily lives?

  7. How do you experience the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life?

  8. What steps can you take this week to grow in your understanding and practice of being a child of God?

Life Application

This week, take time each day to reflect on one privilege of being a child of God and how it impacts your life. Write down your thoughts and share them with someone in your small group or a close friend.

Key Takeaways

  1. Being a child of God is a permanent relationship established through faith in Jesus Christ.
  2. God’s love for us as His children is profound and transformative.
  3. With the privilege of being God’s children comes the responsibility to live in a way that reflects His character.
  4. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live out our identity as children of God.
  5. We have direct access to God and can experience His peace and security in our lives.

Ending Prayer

Lord, we thank You for the incredible privilege of being called Your children. As we go from here, help us to live out our identity in You with joy, love, and faithfulness. Empower us by Your Spirit to reflect Your character in all we do. Keep us mindful of the responsibilities we carry as Your children and guide us in our daily walk with You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.